Remote Senior Controls Systems Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus program

Health insurance

Remote work

Professional development

Equipment budget

Flexible hours

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Controls Systems Engineer to join a globally distributed engineering team on a remote-first basis. You will design, develop, implement, and support advanced control systems for complex industrial applications, utilizing PLCs, HMI/SCADA, robotics, and industrial networks from a base near Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

You will lead multi-disciplinary projects, mentor engineers, and drive innovation while delivering remote support and commissioning, ensuring high

Qualifications

• 10+ years in designing and implementing industrial control systems.
• Expert in PLC programming across multiple platforms.
• Proficient in HMI/SCADA and robotics integration.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and architecture of industrial automation systems.
• Develop and debug PLC logic, HMI screens, and SCADA.
• Integrate robotic systems into production lines.
• Select hardware components and sensors.
• Troubleshoot and provide remote support.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Create P&IDs, schematics, sequences, validation docs.
• Oversee remote commissioning and startup.
• Mentor junior engineers.
• Stay updated on control system tech and innovations.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Robotics integration

Industrial networking

Remote project mgmt

Functional safety

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell Studio 5000

Ignition

Wonderware

FactoryTalk View

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in innovative industrial solutions, is seeking a highly experienced and forward-thinking Senior Controls Systems Engineer to join their exclusively remote engineering department. This critical role involves the design, development, implementation, and ongoing support of advanced control systems for complex industrial applications. You will leverage your deep expertise in PLC programming, HMI/SCADA development, robotics, and industrial networking to drive innovation and ensure the operational excellence of our client's state-of-the‑art systems. This is a remote‑first position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere while contributing to groundbreaking projects. Our operational base near Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA supports this globally distributed team. We are dedicated to empowering our engineers with the tools and autonomy needed to succeed in a virtual environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and architecture of complex industrial automation and control systems, ensuring scalability and reliability.
• Develop, program, and debug PLC logic, HMI screens, and SCADA systems for diverse industrial processes.
• Integrate robotic systems and automated machinery into existing and new production lines.
• Specify and select appropriate hardware components, sensors, actuators, and communication devices.
• Conduct in-depth troubleshooting and root cause analysis for system failures, providing expert remote support.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including mechanical design, electrical engineering, and project management, to deliver seamless solutions.
• Develop comprehensive technical documentation, including P&IDs, electrical schematics, sequence of operations, and validation protocols.
• Oversee the remote commissioning process, guiding on‑site technicians and ensuring successful system start‑up.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning.
• Stay at the forefront of control system technology, researching and recommending innovative solutions.

Requirements

• Master's or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in designing and implementing industrial control systems.
• Expert‑level proficiency in multiple PLC programming platforms (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal/STEP 7, Rockwell Studio 5000/RSLogix) and programming languages (LAD, FBD, SCL, ST).
• Extensive experience with leading HMI/SCADA software packages (e.g., Ignition, Wonderware, FactoryTalk View).
• Deep understanding of industrial communication protocols such as Profinet, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP, and fieldbuses.
• Hands‑on experience with industrial robot programming and integration (e.g., Fanuc, KUKA, ABB).
• Strong knowledge of functional safety standards and implementation (e.g., ISO 13849, IEC 61508).
• Proven ability to manage complex projects from conception to completion in a remote setting.
• Exceptional problem‑solving, analytical, and leadership skills.
• Superior communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, essential for remote collaboration.

Benefits

• Top‑tier salary and performance‑based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous annual leave, flexible working hours, and remote work support.
• Substantial budget for professional development, conferences, and certifications.
• Access to cutting‑edge simulation and engineering software.
• A stimulating and innovative remote work culture.
• Retirement savings plan with generous company matching.
• Opportunities to lead impactful projects and influence technological direction.